Kalajoki

The small town of Kalajoki lies on the west coast of Finland, overlooking the Gulf of Bothnia, and you’ll find the Kalajoki Golf facility just a 10-minute drive away, where Pekka Sivula routed the fairways across sandy, densely forested terrain close to the coastline. There’s also a driving range, pitching and putting greens and a 9-hole short course for beginners.

Extending to 6,229 metres from the back tees, the course plays to a par of 73 (36 out then 37 in) with only three par threes on the scorecard at holes 3, 10 and 16. Bunkers are modest in number, there are no water hazards in play, and the landscape is fairly level so it’s an easy walk for most golfers.

Feature holes include tough par fours at the 6th and 12th (the first bearing slightly left to the green and the second bending right off the tee); the last (and longest) of the par threes at the 165-metre 16th; and the closing par five 18th which snakes right then left to the home green.

Visiting golfers should note their modest green fee includes “golf cart and sauna with towel” so make the most of the amenities on offer!